A story of courage and alliance with institutions

A powerful collaboration between law enforcement, local schools and the Zonta Club of Asti, Italy, was at the heart of a recent Rose Day event aimed at raising awareness about early and forced marriage.

The meeting, organized by the Z Club Hasta in partnership with the Zonta Club of Asti, featured Chief of Police Marina Di Donato and Monica Tosin, Zonta Foundation Ambassador for District 30, Area 03. The event was held at the invitation of Maria Stella Perrone, director of several schools in the city. Students from Liceo Classico, Istituto Professionale Sella and Liceo Artistico attended the session.

The theme of the discussion was early marriage, and Chief Di Donato shared a compelling case that underscored how close to home this issue can be. She recounted the story of a young woman of African origin who held Italian citizenship and was forced by her family to return to their country of origin for an arranged marriage against her will.

The alert was first raised by the girl’s school, and through a coordinated effort involving law enforcement and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the girl was rescued and brought back to Italy. She was able to resume her education and build a life free from coercion.

The Zonta Club of Asti played a vital role by securing a sponsor who provided financial support for the girl’s housing and living expenses, ensuring her continued independence and stability.

In closing, Tosin urged students to remain attentive to their peers, noting that “suspicious absences” or behavioral changes could be signs of a deeper issue.